Age-Related Morphometric Characteristics Of The Frontal Sinuses In Children Of The Bukhara Region

Abstract

The frontal sinuses are highly variable anatomical structures whose morphology changes significantly with age, sex, and environmental factors. Reliable data on their development in childhood and adolescence remain limited, especially in regional populations. Cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) provides accurate three-dimensional visualization and allows detailed morphometric analysis of the sinuses at minimal radiation exposure. The aim of study was to investigate age-related morphometric characteristics of the frontal sinuses in children and adolescents from the Bukhara region using CBCT. A total of 516 clinically healthy individuals (240 boys, 276 girls) aged 4–18 years were examined. CBCT scans were performed in standing position, with standardized head fixation. Morphometric parameters (length, width, depth, volume), shape, and pneumatization frequency were evaluated using OneClinic 3D Viewer software. Statistical analysis was performed in Microsoft Excel 2016 and IBM SPSS Statistics 20, applying parametric and non-parametric methods (t-test, Fisher’s F-test, p<0.05). Frontal sinuses became measurable from the age of 4, with a sharp increase in pneumatization frequency by 6–7 years. Intensive growth occurred during school and adolescent periods (8–16 years), followed by stabilization at 17–18 years. Boys demonstrated significantly larger dimensions and volumes than girls, particularly during puberty (p<0.05). A left-sided dominance was observed, more pronounced in males, whereas girls exhibited relatively symmetric development. Sinus shape evolved with age, from round/oval in early childhood to more diverse forms (oval, triangular, irregular) in adolescence. CBCT proved to be an optimal method for age-related morphometric evaluation of the frontal sinuses, providing accurate volumetric and shape assessment. The study established normative data for the Bukhara region population, confirming earlier and more intensive development of the left sinus, significant sexual dimorphism, and regional morphological features. These findings are relevant for otorhinolaryngology, maxillofacial surgery, forensic identification, and anthropological studies.